A non-racist, unbigoted inquiry into the core teachings of Islam and what it all means (if anything) for non-Muslims

Is There a Connection Between Islam and the Mafia?

Raymond Ibrahim wrote a three-part series on the similarities between Islam and the mafia. The parallels are striking, and I don't think it's a coincidence. The birthplace of the mafia, Sicily, was the first Italian territory to be conquered by Islam (in the year 827), and it was ruled by Islam for 234 years.

However it happened, the similarities are numerous. Below is a synopsis of Ibrahim's list of parallels. At the end you will find links to the three articles in the series. They are very much worth reading. Here is Ibrahim's list of similarities:

The leader has absolute authority, is inaccessible, and is greatly feared.

The leader's will is dominant. The subordinates' only job is to follow orders.

The leader gets a "cut" of all the action of his subordinates, but there is still some booty for the subordinates.

The group assassinates enemies.

Each member must be willing to die to defend the group and the leader.

Trying to leave the group is seen as a betrayal and is punishable by death.

Members are required to maintain absolutely loyalty to the group and its leader.

Members are not to trust or associate with non-members of the group.

Association with outsiders and deceiving them is permissible to advance the goals of the group.

The leader or the group will "make you an offer you can't refuse."

They fund their operations with "protection money" gathered from non-members.